NCJ Number
225769
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 59 Issue: 1 Dated: January/February 2009 Pages: 59-64
Date Published
January 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This case study of a stabbing homicide demonstrates the usefulness of BlueStar Forensic Latent Detection Reagent for revealing latent bloodstain evidence.
Abstract
Because of the victim’s heavy bleeding from the stabbing, detectives believed there was a good chance that a suspect in the case could have brought the victim’s blood into the suspect’s vehicle. Visual examination showed that both the interior and the exterior of the suspect’s vehicle were unusually clean. The investigators decided to use BlueStar Forensic Latent Detection Reagent, a commercially available product used for the detection of blood evidence. An area on the left rear door was positive for the presence of blood. The luminescent reaction and area of the vehicle were able to be captured with digital photographs. This was done by turning ambient lighting off and placing a digital camera on a tripod. The camera’s internal metering system was used to set the proper aperture and shutter speed to the camera. The BlueStar Forensic Latent Detection Reagent was also applied to the interior of the left front door of the suspect’s vehicle. The interior of this door was mostly cloth; and prior to the reagent‘s application, no blood was observed. Investigators were again able to capture the reaction for the presence of blood. Swabs were prepared from the areas that luminesced. The swabs were then tested with phenolphthalein for the presence of blood, resulting in a positive reaction. Swabs were prepared from the luminescent areas on the vehicle doors for later DNA analysis. The DNA profiles from the latching mechanisms of the two doors were matched to the DNA profile of the victim, leading to the conviction of the suspect. 5 figures and 2 references